absolute fracture risk

While T-scores and Z-scores from bone densitometry tests can be very helpful in diagnosing osteoporosis and osteopenia, these numbers don't tell the whole story. That's why major health organizations and a number of experts in the field are working to develop a standard of "absolute fracture risk." This would be a figure provided to the patient that incorporates not only the results of the bone scan but also other significant risk factors -- those that can be controlled, such as calcium intake and smoking, as well as those that can't, such as family history. It appears the absolute fracture risk would provide a better perspective on what the real-life probability of a fracture is for the specific person. Here's hoping the details are pinned down before long so that this additional diagnostic tool is available before long.